The Sports Ministry is looking to overhaul the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), the body in charge of university-level sports, following multiple allegations of mismanagement at the ongoing World University Games in Germany.
Ministry Eyes AIU Revamp Amid Concerns
The Association of Indian Universities has come under the Sports Ministry’s radar due to concerns about its handling of university sports. This scrutiny comes as the Ministry plans to introduce the National Sports Governance Bill in Parliament.
A ministry source indicated that the AIU seems “unable to manage University sports.” They emphasized that university sports are crucial for developing world-class athletes, but significant gaps and mismanagement persist.
The proposed solution involves a “proper functioning federation” to oversee university sports, moving beyond the current nodal body structure.
Badminton Team Hit by Administrative Errors
One of the most prominent issues at the World University Games involved India’s bronze-winning badminton squad. Six out of 12 selected players were barred from competing.
This exclusion happened because Indian officials reportedly failed to submit all player names correctly during the managers’ meeting on July 16. It was a major blow to the team and highlighted the administrative oversight.
Athletes’ Dreams Dashed by Missing Entries
The problems weren’t limited to badminton. Athletes in other disciplines, particularly athletics, also faced last-minute disappointments. Their names were removed from start lists, preventing them from competing.
Quarter-miler Devyaniba Zala shared her frustration on Instagram, stating her name was missing from the 400m start list despite her selection and preparations. Similarly, Federation Cup silver medalist Seema couldn’t participate in the 10,000m event due to a missing entry.
Jersey Regulations Flouted, AIU Fined
Adding to the list of issues, the AIU also incurred a 1000 euro fine for violating jersey regulations in badminton. International rules stipulate that only the last name, and optionally the initials of the first name, should be printed on the back of jerseys.
However, Indian jerseys displayed the full names of the players, a clear breach of protocol. A player anonymously called this “gross negligence and ignorance,” reflecting widespread dissatisfaction among the contingent.
- Six Indian badminton players were barred from competing due to incorrect name submissions.
- Athletes like Devyaniba Zala and Seema found their names missing from event start lists.
- AIU was fined 1000 euros for violating jersey printing regulations.
- The Sports Ministry aims to introduce a new governance bill to streamline sports management.
These incidents underscore the need for improved oversight and management within university sports, a sector critical for nurturing India’s athletic talent.
